As Jammu and Kashmir conducts its second phase of Assembly elections, tensions are evident between alliance partners Congress and the National Conference. The two parties have teamed up for the elections under a seat-sharing agreement, with the National Conference contesting 51 seats, Congress 32, and the CPI(M) one seat. Additionally, there will be a friendly contest for six seats between the two major parties.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who cast his vote on the day of the elections, voiced his concerns about Congress’s engagement in the region. “I hope after Rahul is done campaigning in one or two seats in Kashmir, he focuses in Jammu. Ultimately, what the Congress does in Kashmir is not important. What the Congress does in Jammu is important,” he stated, emphasizing the need for Congress to shift its attention to Jammu.
Abdullah expressed disappointment regarding Congress’s efforts in the plains of Jammu, remarking, “Unfortunately, Congress hasn’t done as much in the plains of Jammu as we would expect them to do.” He pointed out that the party had received a significant share of seats in the region, yet their campaign had not gained sufficient momentum. “The lion’s share of the seats that the alliance gave in Jammu was to the Congress party. Yet, the Congress’ campaign in Jammu is yet to begin, and there are only five days of campaigning left,” he added.
The elections in Jammu and Kashmir are taking place in three phases. Voting for 24 seats in the first phase occurred on September 18, followed by 26 seats in the second phase today. The final phase will see voting for 40 seats on October 1, with results to be announced on October 8.
As the political landscape unfolds, all eyes are on how the alliance partners navigate their strategies in Jammu and the impact this will have on the elections. Abdullah’s comments highlight a critical moment for the Congress party, urging them to enhance their campaigning efforts in a region where their presence is deemed vital for electoral success.